What is water waste?
Water waste is any water, other than natural precipitation, that flows or sprays from a property to the public right-of-way or adjacent property. Landscape irrigation is the most common cause of water waste, but it can also result from air conditioning systems, leaks, car washing, draining pools, and other uses of water. It is also considered water waste to use spray irrigation between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. from April 1-Oct. 31.
Water waste results in the loss of a valuable natural resource and is detrimental to conservation. It is prohibited for all Water Authority customers and for anyone within the service area (even if they are not using water provided by the utility).
Click here to report water waste or call 842-WATR (9287).
Water waste violations include waste caused by equipment malfunctions such as broken sprinklers and leaking air conditioners. Malfunction must be repaired or the flow turned off within 48 hours of notification by the Water Authority. Notifications may include a door hanger and an alert flag placed at or near the site of the malfunction. If a malfunction continues after 48 hours a violation will be issued for non-repair.
Water waste fines (fee assessments)
Please note that the Water Authority is now issuing written warnings for the first two observed violations of residential water waste. After that the regular fine schedule is in force. Assessments DOUBLE during an official Drought Watch. A previous violation shall not be considered if a period of five years has elapsed since the violation was incurred or the property is acquired by a new owner.
Please Note: Each observed violation over the eighth - $2,000 each
Click Here to download and view the water waste ordinance.